Thread: A/C System for 1957 Chevy 3100

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I am looking for a A/C system the is REALLY efficient and cold but not really expensive. I live in AZ and need a good system but don't know where to look. Any advice would be helpful.

Thanks in advance.

I guess a lot is going to depend on your definition of "not really expensive" and what your looking for. If you can do the install and charging youself it will save a bunch of money.

IF your looking for a behind dash unit with "factory" style in dash vents, Vintage Air and a few other make some units that will work. Vintage Air also has released a re-pop of the mark IV units that are under dash and pretty easy to install.

About the cheapest you can go (which is the route I often take) is to find a good used under dash unit you like, refurbish it and build your own system. For me I like the vintage look of the under dash units in a lot of cars. I also prefer the effency of a Sanden compressor over the older 60s untis. It's still not "cheap".

Under dash unit $50-100
New condenser $100-150
New Compressor
Sanden $400-500
Rebuilt A6 $200
Hoses $200-250
Receiver Dryer $30
Brackets/pullys $50-several hundred (depending on taste)
Referigerant/oil $40


Don't even bother with a rebuilt Sanden. from personal expereince they don't last.

I have been using Freeze 12 (available at Checker) for several years a little more expensive than 134A but a lot cheaper than R-12.

Hot Rod Air makes nice easy to install and relatively economical kits. You can buy one on Ebay for around $700 for a package.

Hupmobile is right on the money. I have installed Hot Rod Air units in 63 1/2 Sprint with their slim line under dash, under the dash of 84 Elcamino 454, my 31 dodge ,54 Ford custom line and installing one in 52 Ford F1. Great systems,totally complete at $695.

Something I'll have to look into for one of my projects, I hadn't seen these guys before.